Small Space Apartment Balcony Makeover for Under $1,500

Originally Published on August 8, 2019. Last Updated on August 7, 2023.

All outdoor spaces vary in their own unique way; shape, size, material, sun exposure, and so on. When we set out to makeover a customer’s small outdoor balcony we were ready for the challenge. Not only were we constrained on space, but we wanted to limit our furniture budget to $1,500.

The Challenge

Although the homeowners have a beautiful view of a tree-lined pond from their balcony, they rarely enjoyed it. Not to mention, the railing around their balcony completely encloses their space so they were missing out on an amazingly private spot to enjoy the outdoors.

Their balcony measures 4′ wide x 15′ long — pretty narrow. A dining set wasn’t a great option for a small space this shape and size and although Adirondack and Rocking Chairs would have fit it wasn’t quite what the couple was looking for. Their main goal was to extend their indoor living room space which was connected to the balcony by a sliding glass door.

The Furniture

Vineyard Deep Seating Chair | Black Lumber with Granite Cushions
Vineyard Ottoman | Black Lumber with Granite Cushions
Long Island 18″ Side Table | Black Lumber

A pair of Vineyard Deep Seating Chairs were the perfect way to add style and comfort to the balcony without compromising space. Since the space was pretty long, we were also able to incorporate a coordinating Vineyard Ottoman which could double as a coffee table AND extra seating, when needed.

Inspiration

The homeowners are lucky enough to have their balcony face a pond and the maintained landscape of their local golf course. We wanted to extend these natural elements onto the balcony by filling it with big, leafy plants.

For the furniture colors, we chose classic Black lumber paired with Granite cushions for a contemporary look that kept with the natural color scheme.

We also pulled in natural blues and beiges with the outdoor rug runner. It adds just enough softness to the concrete floor, while also adding a complementary texture to the space.

Final Look

Once all of the pieces were pulled together the balcony felt like the perfect little getaway!

Small Space Tips

Versatile Tables

Since this particular space was too narrow for a coffee table, we paired two Long Island 18″ Side Tables together to create a mini coffee table. On their own, these side tables are a great accessory featuring clean lines (and affordable price tag!). This solution allows the homeowner to style them separately or together.

Multi-Use Ottoman

While we were only able to fit two deep seating chairs in this space, the ottoman can also double as a third seat (or a place to set a tray with drinks and snacks).

Plant Stands

Prop a few plants on plant stands to draw the eye up. By simply bringing the heaviness of your plant pot up off the floor you’ll trick your eye and give the appearance of more floor space. Go for a simple stand with simple lines so you don’t add too much busyness to the space — we like this tall plant stand from Home Depot or this shorter metal plant stand from Wayfair.

Hanging Plants

If your outdoor space is too small to include several potted plants consider adding hanging plants — they’ll add interest and texture while creating an even cozier atmosphere. If you’re into the current macrame trend, go for a macrame plant hanger and don’t be afraid to mix some faux plants in with real (less to water!).

For more tips on planning your small space check out our 5 Ideas for Planning A Small Balcony blog post.

Once you have a game plan, take our Outdoor Furniture Planner quiz. We’ll ask you about the size and shape of your space, 5 quick questions total and then provide you with up to three furniture set results.